Taster

Nose: Sherried. Oaky. Cedar wood. Walnut stain. Sultanas. Overcooked plum jam.\rCough syrup. Liquorice.

Palate: Oak prevails. Quite astringent at start then mellowing on dried fruit.

Finish: Sweeter. Damson plum jam. Dark chocolate.

Comment: This whisky is oak dominated. Too much for me as we have lost the distillery character, but the nose is expressive. Beware of water, it kills it.

Score: 7.6

Taster

Nose: Long, rounded and sweet, think maple syrup and sultana and black cherry pie filling, mixed with a massive spiciness. All of this revolves around black fruits and an attractive bitterness.

Palate: Thick long and ripe it suddenly explodes on the palate. Layered with a cherry note that brings to mind fruit puddings. Deep and generous.

Finish: Spiced and long.

Comment: A stellar Benriach. A highly recommended dram.

Score: 8.5